These Healthy High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a tasty treat packed with protein! They combine ground chicken and zucchini into bite-sized pieces, making them perfect for snacks or appetizers.
Honestly, who can resist a popper? They are fun to eat and easy to make, especially when I’m in a hurry. I love pairing them with yogurt dip for an extra zing! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This lean meat is full of protein, making it a great base for poppers. If you want a change, ground turkey or lean beef works well too and can give a different flavor!
Zucchini: Zucchini adds moisture and a mild taste. You can swap it with grated carrots or sweet potatoes if you want more color and sweetness. Just squeeze out extra moisture as you did with zucchini!
Almond Flour: This flour adds a nice nuttiness and helps bind the ingredients. If you prefer a lower-carb option, you can use coconut flour, but remember to use less since it’s more absorbent. Traditional breadcrumbs are also an option!
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley or cilantro for a fresh kick. Experiment with dill or green onions if you’re looking for different flavors!
How Do I Ensure My Poppers Stay Together While Cooking?
Keeping your poppers intact can be tricky if the mixture is too wet. Start by properly squeezing out excess moisture from the zucchini; this step is super important!
- Mix your ingredients until just combined. Over-mixing can make them tougher.
- When forming the patties, press them firmly so they hold together during cooking.
- Cook them in batches, without overcrowding the pan; this helps maintain their shape and improves the browning!
These steps will help ensure your chicken zucchini poppers come out perfect every time! Enjoy the process and don’t worry if they aren’t all perfectly shaped; they will taste fantastic!
Healthy High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken breast
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour for less carbs)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil for cooking
For the Green Yogurt Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to cook. So, in about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, healthy dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchini using a box grater. Once grated, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or some paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is important to prevent soggy poppers!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated zucchini, chopped onion (if using), minced garlic, almond flour, egg, parsley (or cilantro), salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir everything together until well combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!
3. Shape the Poppers:
Now it’s time to form the mixture into small patties. Aim for about 2-3 inches in diameter and press them firmly together to help them stay intact while cooking.
4. Cook the Poppers:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken zucchini poppers in batches. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan! Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure they’re safe to eat, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Make the Green Yogurt Sauce (Optional):
If you want to whip up a quick dipping sauce, blend the Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small food processor or blender until smooth.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm chicken zucchini poppers on a plate, and don’t forget to add a dollop of the green yogurt sauce or your favorite dip on top!
These poppers are not only healthy and delicious but also perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a light meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Healthy High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work perfectly in this recipe. It will give you a slightly different flavor but will still be high in protein!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, simply replace almond flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use more almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients, like seasonings, are also gluten-free.
Can I Freeze the Poppers for Later?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked poppers! Just form them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to warm them up without losing their texture!
